Sam Coates

I first joined Julie's yard when I was 13, with my 14.2 SP, Romany River Pharoah. Julie's invaluable teaching and encouragement could already be seen with a win at the Summer Champs in the Dennybeck, following with a 2nd at HOYS. Both results I had only wished for previously.

In 2002, I had my GCSE’s so my 14h SHP, Yealand Chapter, was also sent up to ‘boarding school!'  I was lucky enough to have one of my best seasons ever with Julie and the team, as 'Ringo' and I went Supreme Pony Champion at RIHS.  Sadly in 2003 it was last season in 14h, but Ringo did us proud by winning the John Peel Blue Riband Championship that year.

Julie then broke my 15h, Yealand Myth, who went on to take the Champion Novice SHP title at the Winter Championships in 2004.  'Halle' followed in the Yealand tradition and won the 15h Riband title in 2006.  I was so thrilled when I heard that Emma Jackson was buying Halle as i have been able to watch them gain some amazing results together.  Well done Em!

This year I am now 21 and in my final year at University in Bristol, studying Psychology and Sociology.  However, I wont let this stop me and we will be dodging around the exams in the hope of a successful season.  I am fortunate to have a new ride, Whalton Grace and Favour.  She is a small Intermediate SRT and an amazing ride.  This is my 2nd season on my coloured Catwalk II, who i was 3rd on at RIHS last year.        

Catwalk II - QUALIFIED ROYAL INTERNATIONAL 2008

 Whalton Grace & Favour - QUALIFIED ROYAL INTERNATIONAL 2008 

                         QUALIFIED HOYS 2008                                

So fingers are crossed to a successful season, and good luck to everyone else on the team!

Also, a huge thankyou to all the hard work from Julie, Fiona and all the others!